Since then, I've received so many interesting tips from readers and friends that I thought I'd update my initial post with another round-up of locals' favourite picnic spots - with an updated Google map (see end of this post).

One of the places I love taking friends and clients to is Wendy Whitely's 'secret garden' in Lavender Bay near Milsons Point - a gem known only to a handful of streetwise Sydneysiders. Created by Wendy Whiteley after the death of her husband, famous Sydney artist Brett, in 1992, the once derelict green space has been transformed into a spectacularly lush garden and prime picnic spot.

Fabulous views of the city and Harbour Bridge from Wendy Whiteley's garden, which you can either access by ferry (to Luna Park), water taxi (Lavender Bay wharf) or by train (a 5-10 mn walk from Milsons Point station)

Other tips I've received from friends and readers include:

- Mrs Macquarie's Chair - for its unbeatable views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House

- Redleaf Pool, just below the Woollahra Council building, in Double Bay

- Milk Beach in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs, with its fantastic views of the city skyline and Harbour Bridge

- Clontarf Reserve near the Spit Bridge

- Reef Beach, on the beautiful Manly to Spit coastal walk

- Cremorne Point, especially at sunset (this is also one of my favourite spots to watch the New Year's Eve fireworks)

In Wendy Whiteley's 'secret garden' - where the passionate Wendy herself is seen gardening almost every day (clockwise, 2nd image).

- Bayview Marina and Reserve on the North Shore, with its fantastic views of Pittwater and the Pittwater Basin

- Bungan Beach on the Northern Beaches, between Mona Vale and Newport

- Rosherville Reserve in Mosman

- the grounds of the beautiful 1850s harbourside villa Strickland House in Vaucluse, with superb views across the harbour to the city, Bridge and Opera House. This hidden gem is practically unknown beyond a few in-the-know Sydneysiders.

11/14/2010

Here I am, standing backstage at the prestigious Sydney Theatre in Walsh Bay, looking at the production team putting the finishing touches to the set of the much anticipated 'Uncle Vanya' by Chekhov, starring Australia's very own acting legends Cate Blanchett, Hugo Weaving, John Bell and Richard Roxburgh.

I'm extremely impressed by the sheer scale of the wings area. The ceiling must be at least 10 meter high and there's a gigantic set of doors right in front of me, used for the delivery of unusually big pieces of equipment on stage.

Sydney Theatre at Walsh Bay. The entrance of the main performance hall is lined with recycled timber from the wharf - really beautiful.

I'm surrounded by kilometers of meticulously labelled cables and plugs, a mountain of half-empty paint tins, a random collection of stage props, and roll after roll of plastic films in every colour in the rainbow (the films are used as filters for the on-stage lights).

As I'm shown the way to the make-up and dressing rooms for an exclusive 'behind-the-scenes' sneak peek, I feel like pinching myself - how lucky am I to be here?!

The beautiful Walsh Bay area and its heritage-listed timber wharfs

Well actually, everyone was invited along to the party - courtesy of the 2010 Sydney Open (Nov 6-7).

Every two years, Sydney Open - which is part of the Sydney Architecture Festival - celebrates Sydney's rich architectural heritage, with a $40 "City Pass" giving you access to over 50 buildings and sites normally off-limits.

The Grace Hotel; skyscrapers in the CBD

From architectural icons to hidden places, award-winning contemporary designs to much-loved heritage buildings, Sydney Open is a fantastic opportunity to re-discover Sydney's iconic buildings and get a fresh perspective on your own city - becoming a tourist in your hometown for a whole weekend (something that's very dear to my heart).

11/04/2010

[This post has been updated since its first publication. Click here for Part 2, with another round-up of locals' favourite picnic spots.]

One of the questions I get asked A LOT as a private tour guide is "What's your favourite spot in Sydney for a romantic picnic, or a picnic with friends?"

The thing is, it's like having to choose between one's children - there are so many fantastic picnic spots in Sydney, we're really spoiled for choice!

One of the places I often take clients to is Shark Island, in the middle of the Sydney Harbour. Gorgeous island with a beautiful rotunda, million-dollar views over the Harbour Bridge and Opera House and shaded picnic spots with tables and benches. Just perfect. Besides, Shark Island is usually very quiet, because few people are aware of access rules and regulations, so it's almost like renting your own private island. Bring on the Moët and feel like a VIP for next to nothing!

Other spots I really like for secluded or romantic picnics include Bradley's Head amphitheatre, Collins Beach in Manly, McKell Park on Darling Point, the gorgeous Arthur McElhone Reserve in Elizabeth Bay, the Wendy Whiteley garden in Lavender Bay and the Manns Point Park in Greenwich.

What about you? What are some of your favourite picnic spots in Australia?

Bradley's Head amphitheatre

Mytinerary organises gourmet picnics for private clients and corporates, taking care of everything for you, from the location and picnic basket to a bottle of Champagne and private water taxi transfers. Email us at info@mytinerary.com.au for enquiries and quotes.

10/26/2010

Wow, time really does fly... I've now been living in Australia for four years - and still very much in love with Sydney. It's funny because people ask me all the time 'Oh my God, how come you're living in Sydney when you could be living in Paris??!'

The thing is, Paris is amazing of course - and I'll always remain a Parisienne at heart - but believe me, there's quite a difference between visiting Paris when you're on holidays (completely carefree and with lots of time on your hands to walk around, go to markets, and enjoy everything the city has to offer), and working there full time in a crazy-hours industry such as PR or advertising.

Enjoy the view (talking about the sea, of course...)

This is why Jean and I decided to come over to Australia. I guess we needed a bit of a break from all that 'métro-boulot-dodo' frenzy, as we say in French (for 'train-work-sleep')...

And I have to say, so far it's been for the best. It's like, instead of being this all too familiar husband, Paris became this exciting French lover I come back to once a year or so, with only the fun bits to share and no time to get blasé.

And so without further ado, here's what I like most about my 'new husband' - aka Manly Beach in Sydney's Northern Beaches. We moved here after two years living in Elizabeth Bay (which we really enjoyed as well), but Manly is a very special place and every day I feel really blessed that we're living in this area. So if you're coming to Manly for a day - or just a couple of hours - here's my Top-10 list of what to do:

#1: Go for a walk - or a run - on the main beach.

Frolick in the waves. Enjoy the salty sea breeze. Check out the (hot) volley-ball players. Go for a swim - or a surf (I couldn't surf for the life of me, must suffer from some sort of childhood trauma in big waves). Make a sandcastle with your kids. Show off your new bikini. Take your iPod and go for an energising run, in true Rocky Balboa style.

09/11/2010

Could you live in a world without chocolate? Did you grow up daydreaming about winning the Willy Wonka Golden Ticket and tasting the finest truffles and pralines? Are you looking for a very special gift idea for the chocoholics in your life?

Chocolate lovers, rejoice! To celebrate the world-class talent of Sydney’s finest chocolate artisans, Mytinerary is inviting you to a special “round-the-world” chocolate tour as part of the Sydney International Food Festival.

Take your tastebuds on a gourmet journey like no other and join us on a fabulous exploration of “Planet Cacao” as we focus on a different continent every Saturday in October:

This one-day deluxe tour will take you from the lowlands of Mexico and Central America to the lush plantations of Madagascar, by way of Marie-Antoinette’s boudoir in Versailles and Johannes Van Houten’s factory in Amsterdam.

Discover the rich history of cacao discovery and cacao trade. Hear about the religious and ritual significance of chocolate for the early Mayan and Aztec civilizations. Learn about the different steps of the chocolate-making process, from “bean to bar”. Find out how chocolate conquered Europe in the Renaissance and became the “drink of kings, and king of drinks”.

Mingle with like-minded foodies and interact with some of Sydney’s most talented chocolate artisans, who will share with you their passion for chocolate and tell you about their personal approach to chocolate making.

Most importantly, get ready for a chocolate tasting extravaganza! In addition to your morning coffee and chocolate macarons, you’ll taste different sorts of hot chocolates from each continent, some inspired by antique Aztec recipes, others featuring pure “single origin” cacao beans from the best plantations in the world.

You’ll also taste some of the finest chocolate bonbons and truffles in your life, with several pieces for you to try at each of our chocolate stops. Think dark chocolate ganache with Thai basil, truffles with French Champagne and milk chocolate with Mexican chilli. Last but not least, you’ll enjoy a delicious tasting plate featuring among other delicacies a handmade chocolate mousse.

And for a welcome savoury break, you’ll be treated to a sumptuous lunch at a Sydney favourite. Each Saturday, the restaurant will be different, in line with the continental “theme du jour”. Icing on the cake, matching wines from each continent will also be served (eg wines from Argentina or Chile on the “American” day, wines from South Africa on the “African” day, etc).

So if you're looking for something fun and inspiring, join one of our signature 'Green with Envy' walking tours in Sydney’s most vibrant design precincts; and get inspired by innovative designers and store owners who follow sustainable principles.

Discover irresistible homeware, ceramics, stationery, textiles, accessories and jewellery from Australia and overseas, all produced with impeccable green credentials.

Retailers and artists responsible for this green wave of gorgeous design will discuss their passion for quality items and sustainable design, as well as giving you tips on green living. It’s much easier than you think! Appreciate the best items on offer – they’re exclusive, exquisite and eco-friendly.

The three-hour walking tour is limited to 10 per group, and bookings are essential.

Shelf / Life, Surry Hills

When: 10am-1pm, Tuesday to Saturday, from 31 July to 14 August 2010.

Where: Mostly around Surry Hills and Paddington (itineraries may vary from day to day; where required, transport will be provided at no extra cost)

To make a booking, visit our events page (or copy http://greenwithenvy-sydneydesign.eventbrite.com/ in your browser). You can also make a booking by phone (1300 951 138) or email (info@mytinerary.com.au). Our online payment options include include MasterCard, Visa and PayPal. Alternatively, we can also email you our bank details if you prefer to make an Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). That's easy, just contact us at info@mytinerary.com.au.

05/21/2010

Now let me warn you, my friend, this is not your usual tour, so be prepared for a gourmet experience like no other. Here are some of things that make the Mytinerary 'Ultimate Sydney Chocolate Tour' and 'Round-the-World Chocolate Tour' stand out:

1. Discover Sydney like you've never seen before, as we reveal some of Sydney's hidden gems and best kept secrets. Travel in style to some of our most iconic precincts - from The Rocks to Kirribilli and Darlinghurst - and soak in their vibrant village atmosphere.

2. Your private guide and passionate foodie - aka 'moi' - has the local knowledge and insider access to bring you an authentic, unforgettable cultural experience.

3. Treat yourself to a truly indulgent experience - and the only luxury gourmet experience of its kind in Sydney. We've taken the headache out of planning so sit back, relax, forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life and let the good times roll.

4. The Ultimate Sydney Chocolate Tour is not "just" about food... It's also an enriching cultural journey which takes you from Mexico to Sydney by way of Paris, Brussels, Edinburgh and even the Philippines. And we're talking music, art and business along the way!

6. Just to get you salivating, some of the edible gems you taste on the day include milk chocolate and passionfruit macarons, dark chocolates with Filipino lime, banana and salted caramel truffles, dark hot chocolate with rose and black pepper, milk chocolate bars with pinenuts and sea-salt caramel, single-origin dark chocolate from Madagascar and the Caribbeans, water ganache with Thai basil - and so much more.

7. Interact with some of the most passionate, generous, creative and talented chocolate artisans you've ever met.

8. Learn about the chocolate-making process and fascinating world of 'single origin' chocolates, the 'creme de la creme' of chocolates.

10. Gorgeous gift certificates are available. So now's the best time to spoil yourself and your loved ones with a Christmas, birthday or anniversary gift idea that stands out. Just contact us on info@mytinerary.com.au to organise.

To make a booking on one of the next chocolate tours, call 1300 951 138 or visit our event page.

05/17/2010

Sunday brunch at Icebergs Dining Room in Bondi Beach; Shopping in the Strand Arcade; Breakfast at Fratelli Paradiso in Potts Point

Earlier this month I was contacted by Tourism Australia for a super exciting project. They wanted Mytinerary (the bespoke travel consultancy I run) to come up with a kick-ass, once-in-a-lifetime itinerary for a journalist from one of my favourite magazines in France (call her L.), and her guest (call her S.).

Retail therapy in the Strand Arcade; Dinosaur Designs; the Kit Cosmetics store in Paddington (we also went to the Paddo's markets, Oxford St and Five Ways, where I took my guests to the rooftop of the Royal Hotel Paddington so they could enjoy the panoramic views); the Queen Victoria Building

I mean, seriously?! I was jumping up and down in my living room when I got the phone call - the briefing was too good to be true!

"L. and S. will be all yours for a whole weekend," Tourism Australia explained. "We'd like you to show them the Sydney you love: your favourite shopping spots, up-and-coming designers (L. and S. were invited as guests to the Rosemount Australian Fashion Week), quirky cafes, Sydney's most vibrant precincts, iconic restaurants, cool bars such as Ivy Pool and Icebergs, the Bondi-to-Bronte coastal walk - the whole shebang."

Breakfast at the Andrew Boy Charlton (ABC) Pool in Woolloomooloo; the ultimate chocolate tasting at Boon Chocolates in Darlinghurst; walk in the Royal Botanic Gardens

05/14/2010

One of the things I love the most about my (relatively new) job is the fact that every day, in these same streets I thought I knew like the back of my hand, I keep on discovering new things. Details I hadn't noticed, hidden staircases I had never seen before, interesting colours on a wall, jewelry 'ateliers' tucked away in quiet alleyways...

To me, that's the beauty of staying a tourist in one's own city. Do yourself a favour: keep your eyes open, don't become blasé, don't get stuck in the same routine, walking the same streets and going out to the same places all the time. You'll be amazed by what you'll discover.

Take this shot, for instance. I was walking in Paddington with clients the other night when I came across these stairs I had NEVER noticed before, and I instantly fell in love with the scene. Really liked the dramatic light / darkness contrast, the strong architectural lines and the eerie feeling created by the obstructed view at the top of the stairs. Very Hitchcock!

Now this other picture was shot in The Rocks last year, during the VIVID illuminations Festival (27 May-21 June 2010). I remember I was walking fast to try and catch my ferry back to Manly when something stopped me dead in my tracks. I looked up and took in the poetry of the scene, with this beautiful rainbow lighting, the moving silhouette and its reflection in the water, after the rain. All of this on my doorstep (well, sort of) and I could have missed it had I not paid enough attention!

So tell me, dear reader, are you a tourist in your own city? Are you paying enough attention to the beauty around you?

04/09/2010

You know what, there's no right or wrong time to enjoy chocolate, so even though Easter is actually behind us, we can still treat ourselves to good chocolate every now and then!!

Following the launch of Mytinerary's artisan chocolate tours for the Easter long weekend, I've had requests for more tours so I've added more dates in June, July and August - what's not to love about a decadent hot chocolate in winter?!

Visit our event page to see our calendar and make bookings! Tours are available in French as well.

About

Hello there! I’m Myriam, a passionate French foodie, expat, chocolate aficionado and private tour guide living in Sydney, Australia.
This blog is where I talk about the Sydney I love - its diverse dining scene, vibrant creative community, fabulous events and picture-perfect landscapes.
Care to join me for a walk?